Text For Citation: 01 Item/Group: 001 Hazard:

29 CFR OSH ACT of 1970 Section (5)(a)(1): Section 5(a)(1) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970: The employer did not furnish employment and a place of employment which were free from recognized hazards that caused or were likely to cause death or serious physical harm in that employees were exposed to asphyxiation hazards: On or about 08/24/2020, at the plasma laboratory; employees entering a walk-in freezer where large quantities of dry ice was being stored were exposed to unsafe levels of carbon dioxide gas. Recommended Abatement Action: 1. Re-train the employees on the hazards associated with dry ice. 2. Establish a buddy system that requires at least one person is always outside the walk in freezers, when another employee enters the freezers. 3. Ensure that CO2 readings are reduced to safe levels before employees enter or work is to be performed in freezers containing dry ice per CGA G-6.9-2019 by implementing a ventilation procedure sufficient for the amount of dry ice stored in the freezers. 4. Install and/or use CO2 monitors in the freezer area whenever dry ice is stored in the freezers. 5. Make an assessment to determine the maximum quantity of dry ice to be stored safely in the walk in freezers.